Scott J Peters

Scott J. Peters is a Professor in the Department of Global Development at Cornell University, affiliated with the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He holds a concurrent role as the School of Agriculture Endowed Chair in Agricultural Systems at the University of Minnesota (2023–present). Peters specializes in the sociological, historical, and philosophical dimensions of development, emphasizing participatory approaches and democratic engagement. His research focuses on the land-grant university mission, extension work, and civic education.

Education: PhD (1998) and MA (1995) in Education Policy and Management from the University of Minnesota; BS (1983) in Agricultural Education from the University of Illinois.

Research Interests: Civic studies, democracy in higher education, community organizing, oral history, and the transformation of university systems. He critiques and reimagines the role of universities in addressing societal challenges like food insecurity and environmental sustainability.

Grants and Projects: Peters leads or co-leads major initiatives such as 'Food Dignity' (USDA, $5M, 2011–2016), 'Performing Our Future' (Doris Duke Foundation, $225K), and 'Civic Science' (NSF, $50K). These projects emphasize participatory research and community-university partnerships.

Awards and Recognition: While no explicit awards are listed, his extensive grants and scholarly output reflect significant academic impact. He has authored/co-authored 10+ books and numerous peer-reviewed articles.

Labs/Teams: Involved with Cornell’s Imagining America consortium and the Engagement Scholarship Consortium. His work often bridges academic disciplines and community needs through collaborative frameworks like ripple effect mapping and action research.